What vital sign abnormality may indicate sepsis?

Fever or hypothermia is a vital sign abnormality that often indicates sepsis because the body's response to infection can lead to changes in temperature regulation. In sepsis, one might typically see a fever, which results from the immune system's battle against the infection. Conversely, hypothermia can also occur, particularly in severe cases or in vulnerable populations such as the elderly. Both of these temperature changes are critical indicators that something is amiss in the body and can help healthcare providers identify and prompt interventions for sepsis.

Monitoring temperature is especially significant in septic patients, as it can correlate with the severity of the infection and guide treatment decisions. Detection of either fever or hypothermia can prompt further evaluation and management to address the underlying cause, making this vital sign abnormality a key factor in identifying septic patients early in their clinical course.